Israeli strikes on Iran could help Trump make a deal: Axios
3 Min Read
US President Trump told Axios that "Israel's" strike on Iran might boost chances for a nuclear deal.
-
President Donald Trump greets guests during the congressional picnic on the South Lawn of the White House, Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Washington (AP)
Just minutes before heading to the Situation Room for a strategy session on Iran, President Trump shared with Axios his belief that "Israel's" massive strikes might have increased the likelihood of reaching a nuclear agreement between the US and Iran.
When asked if the Israeli strikes on Iran had undermined his nuclear diplomacy efforts, Trump told Axios that he did not believe so and suggested it might have the opposite effect, potentially pushing Iran to engage in more serious negotiations.
Trump noted that he had given Iran a 60-day deadline, "I gave Iran 60 days, today is day 61...They should have made a deal."
Trump argued that "Israel’s" wide-scale attacks had given Iran greater incentive to negotiate a deal, stating that while he had been unable to secure an agreement within the 60-day window despite being close, the recent escalation might now push them toward a resolution.
"I couldn't get them to a deal in 60 days. They were close, they should have done it. Maybe now it will happen."
Trump also reflected on the significance of the previous day’s events and acknowledged that "Israel" had employed "great American equipment" during the attack.
A US official stated that White House envoy Steve Witkoff remains intent on meeting with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday for what would be the sixth round of planned nuclear talks, despite Iran's position that they will not take part in the discussions.
Trump, Netanyahu, talk after strikes on Iran
On Friday, Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for their first conversation since "Israel's" attack, though he declined to share details about the call or address whether Netanyahu had requested direct US involvement in the operation, Axios reported.
Netanyahu stated that he and his senior advisor, Ron Dermer, had engaged in multiple phone calls and meetings with Trump and his administration before the strike, aiming to secure at least tacit approval for the operation.
The Israeli Prime Minister said, "I leave the US position to the US," revealing that the Trump administration had prior knowledge of the strike plan and emphasizing, "I told the president that surprise is the essence of success."
